Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Douro Valley

A Day of Discoveries

Today was a day of experiencing the Douro Valley in all its glory. From the rolling vineyards to the panoramic viewpoints and the delightful local cuisine, every moment was a sensory treat. Lena and I embraced the day with open hearts and empty stomachs, ready to soak in the beauty and flavors of this remarkable region.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Writer's Place in Pinhão. The reviews I had read online were spot on – the place is a hidden gem. Antonio, the owner, greeted us with a warm smile and showed us to a table overlooking the Douro River. The view was simply breathtaking. Chef Marian, Antonio's wife, prepared a delicious spread of local cheeses, fresh bread, and homemade jams. Lena particularly enjoyed the spinach cannelloni, while I couldn't get enough of the blood sausage. We also sampled their house red wine, which was exceptional, and some olive oil that tasted like freshly pressed olives. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Writer's Place in Pinhao - a true gem along the Douro River.

After breakfast, we set off to Quinta da Pacheca. The drive itself was stunning, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. Quinta da Pacheca is one of the oldest and most renowned estates in the Douro Valley, dating back to 1738. The Real Review mentioned that Quinta da Pacheca is a highly professional business and well worth a visit. As we approached the entrance, we were greeted by an ancient olive tree, reportedly over 1200 years old. It was awe-inspiring to think of all the history this tree had witnessed. We took a tour of the winery, where we learned about the traditional methods of producing port wine. The highlight was the fermentation cellar, filled with large granite troughs called lagares. It's fascinating how some wineries still use the traditional method of stomping the grapes by foot.


Discover the serene beauty and rich winemaking tradition of Quinta da Pacheca in Portugal's stunning Douro Valley, a perfect retreat for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

We opted for the picnic experience at Quinta da Pacheca, and it was nothing short of magical. They provided us with a basket filled with regional delicacies, including Lamego meat cake, codfish cakes, local cheeses, and an assortment of dried fruits. We found a secluded spot amidst the vineyards, overlooking the rolling hills and the Douro River. It was the perfect setting to relax and savor the flavors of the Douro. We also enjoyed a tasting of four Quinta da Pacheca wines – two Douro DOC wines and two Ports. It was an exquisite experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the region.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After our delightful picnic, we drove to Miradouro de Santa Marinha. The drive was a bit challenging, with narrow, winding roads, but the views along the way were worth it. We learned that a new bar and sanitary facilities have been installed at the Miradouro de Santa Marinha. As we arrived, we were greeted by a panoramic vista of the Douro Valley. The viewpoint offered breathtaking views of the Douro River and the Tua River meeting. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, and we spent a good hour simply taking in the beauty of the landscape. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the simple things in life and the beauty of nature.


Experience breathtaking views and serene surroundings at Miradouro de Santa Marinha, a must-visit tourist attraction in Portugal.

For lunch, we decided to try Manjar do Douro in Lamego. The restaurant had received excellent reviews, with many praising its traditional Portuguese cuisine and friendly staff. The atmosphere was modern and inviting, and we were promptly seated by a friendly waiter. I ordered the *bacalhau à brás*, a traditional codfish dish, while Lena opted for the roast lamb. Both dishes were delicious, and the portions were generous. We also shared a bottle of local red wine, which paired perfectly with our meal. The service was attentive, and the overall experience was excellent.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Manjar do Douro in Lamego - where every dish celebrates the rich flavors of the Douro Valley.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in another quintessential Douro Valley experience: a visit to a wine bar. We chose Adega Wine Bar, located on the 11th floor of the Hotel Vincci Ponte de Ferro. The bar offered stunning views of Porto's Ribeira and the Dom Luis I bridge. Although it was a bit of a drive from Lamego, the views were worth it. We enjoyed a glass of local wine as we watched the sunset over the Douro River. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and culinary delights.


Discover the exquisite wines and stunning views at Adega Wine Bar in Vila Nova de Gaia, a must-visit for wine lovers and tourists alike.

For dinner, we chose Solar Douro, drawn in by the promise of traditional cuisine and stunning vineyard views. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. I started with a hearty bowl of *caldo verde*, a traditional Portuguese soup, while Lena opted for the grilled sardines. For our main courses, I chose the *cozido à portuguesa*, a hearty stew with various meats and vegetables, while Lena went with the roasted octopus. The food was rich, flavorful, and authentically Portuguese. The staff was attentive and passionate about the local cuisine, adding to the overall experience. The restaurant downstairs was fantastic and the hosts were super friendly and attentive, according to some reviews.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine with stunning views at Solar Douro in Santa Cruz do Douro.

As we sipped our wine, we reflected on the day's adventures. The Douro Valley had truly exceeded our expectations. From the stunning landscapes to the delightful cuisine and the warm hospitality of the locals, every moment was a treasure. I am so glad that Lena and I decided to embark on this journey together. It's moments like these that strengthen our bond and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Quinta do Vesúvio and Quinta da Côrte, two more renowned wineries in the region. I'm particularly excited to explore Quinta do Vesúvio, known for its stunning location and exceptional wines. We also plan to visit PORTOLOGIA - La Maison des Port, a shop specializing in port wines. I'm hoping to find a special bottle to bring back home as a souvenir. I'm also looking forward to another day of culinary delights and exploring the hidden gems of the Douro Valley. Until then, *adeus*!